DVD time for you. A book is fine but "a picture is worth a thousand words. Google your way to Mel Krieger's "Beginnings, An Introduction to Fly Fishing" or Jack Dennis' "Learning to Fly Fish For Trout." Now, Ross Reels or Courtland Line has the whole set-up for you...the reel is pre-spooled with backing, fly line and leader (tippet) all fitting in a hard case. The Ross Reel package comes with Mel's DVD and can be had at Sierra Trading Post, on line, for $169.95. The Courtland deal is about $149.95, also through STP on line. Tight lines to you!